Facelift (Small Incision)

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure that can restore a youthful appearance to the neck, lower face and mid-face.

How is a Facelift Performed?

The small incision facelift is performed as an outpatient surgical procedure.

During this procedure, the physician makes a small incision in front of the ear and lifts the cheek, reduces the jowl, and softens the nasolabial fold (laugh lines). Unlike a traditional facelift, however, a small incision facelift does not provide maximum tightening of loose or sagging skin on the neck.

A facelift alone will not remove forehead wrinkles, crow's feet or bags under your eyes. These areas can, however, be treated with other aesthetic techniques.

A small incision facelift is not as extensive as a traditional or full facelift. It can be done in the physician's office with local anesthesia, and can have a shorter recovery time.

Some relaxation of facial tissues will occur during the first few weeks. After that, the aging process continues. Your lifestyle choices, bone structure, skin type, sun exposure and heredity all play a role in determining how many years can be removed and for how long.

The UPMC Cosmetic Surgery and Skin Health Center staff will discuss which option is right for you depending upon your goals and lifestyle.